Bible 7

This course is an overview of the New Testament—the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, the historical development of the church, and the Epistles. Students are taught that Old Testament prophecy is revealed in Jesus, the promised Messiah. As the perfect covenant Mediator, Jesus stands as the reason for all human history. The New Testament not only reveals Christ to man, it also is the foundational document for people to understand man’s relationship with God and other individuals. Hence, it is a book not only of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, it is also the Christian’s guide to life. (Semester Course)

English 7        

This course increases students’ knowledge and appreciation of fine literature; develops communication skills, both oral and written; and establishes the habit of critical thinking. Through the use of the literature text and supplemental readings, students study short stories, short novels, poetry, and drama, and increase their understanding of the elements of fiction including character, setting, and plot. Students learn to express themselves clearly, concisely, and correctly through the study of grammar, regular vocabulary and spelling tests, and frequent writing assignments including essays and poetry. A unit of study is devoted to proper research techniques and MLA (Modern Language Association) style.  At least one inter-departmental research paper (e.g., history-English, science-English) is assigned during the year.

Latin 1a

This course is an intensive introduction to the rudiments of the Latin language and the Roman world.  Students acquire proficiency in reading and translating basic Latin constructions, study elements of Roman civilization, explore etymological dictionaries, and increase their knowledge of Latin phrases and abbreviations commonly used in the modern world.  Students who have completed Phenomenon of Language 6 as well as students new to the study of Latin will find this class challenging and exciting.

Spanish 1a

This course is intended to help the student reach a Novice-High level of proficiency for speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The student begins to comprehend words and phrases in the form of simple questions, statements, and frequently used commands. Practice of new skills and vocabulary occurs through various classroom activities and at-home assignments such as paired conversations, practice drills, oral presentations, spoken and written exercise, and assigned readings. This course also introduces the students to the geography and culture of the Spanish-speaking world through authentic materials, music, magazines, and video clips. The course also attempts to train students in the use of strategies unique to language study.

U.S. History, Part 1

This course is a study of American history from the Age of Exploration up to the Civil War.  The class concentrates on the political, economic, and social developments of the country and where applicable, focuses on Maryland history.  Class discussions, reading of primary sources, and essay writing will challenge students to develop consistent arguments and to think critically.  Current events will be incorporated through projects and comparative chronological studies.

Math (Students will be tested and placed in the appropriate level)

Pre-Algebra

This course provides students with the necessary tools to be successful in Algebra I. Students will master integers, multi-step equations, and other fundamental algebraic concepts. The course engages students in critical thinking about math concepts previously learned and applies this knowledge to the abstract nature of algebra.

Algebra 1

This course involves the study of algebraic concepts, which includes operations with real numbers, monomials and polynomials, relations and functions, equations and inequalities, and graphing. Throughout the course, the students are introduced to the world of algebra as it relates to “real world” experiences.  Technology will be used with appropriate topics.  (Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra)

Physical Education 7

This course is designed to introduce a wide variety of sports to students.  The purpose of the class is to help students understand the concept of team sports.  They will learn the rules, the object of the games, and the fundamentals of each sport.  Students will learn teamwork and good sportsmanship, as well as the ability to get along with other classmates, in a competitive atmosphere.  The class is also designed to develop motor skills and provide an understanding of the importance of physical exercise to the mental and physical well-being of the individual. (Semester Course)

Life Science 7

This course is designed as a survey course touching all the major areas of life science.  Students begin the year with a study of living things, focusing on the cell as the basic unit of life.  Cell structure and activities such as photosynthesis and respiration are covered.  The first half of the year ends with a study of genetics.  The second semester begins with a unit on classification and the theory of evolution in contrast to Biblical creation and the evidences for intelligent design.  The rest of the year is spent in a study of the six kingdoms.  Laboratory work includes studies with the digital microscope, the cell and cell processes, and the frog dissection.  Students are required to do an outside science project during first semester, and are encouraged to participate in the science fair in the second semester.

Concert Choir (Grades 6 and 7)

Students will learn more advanced music and begin to sing in parts.  The class will continue to work on music reading skills, sight-reading, listening skills, movement activities, ensemble singing, music history, and theory.  They will perform throughout the year. (Semester Course)

Introduction to Theater (Grades 6 and 7)

This course will introduce basic acting skills through storytelling and character study.  Students will gain an understanding of the importance of expression through words and body, participating in a variety of exercises and forming constructive criticism of actors from clips of theatrical presentations that will be shown in class. Throughout the semester, students will put their new skills to use by performing a wide range of characters in monologues, short skits, and scenes that will be presented in class. (Semester Course)

Visual Arts (Grades 6 and 7)

Students in middle school art class will have the opportunity to use, develop, and deepen the concepts and skills acquired in lower grades.  The elements of art and principles of design will be applied to art projects as students continue to explore different mediums, master specific techniques, and create unique expressions of their own.  To enrich student knowledge, art history will be incorporated into instruction. (Semester Course)